Dive into the enchanting world of the 1972 film 'Gargoyles,' where nostalgic horror meets quirky storytelling. Explore its unique character dynamics and the creative influence of Stan Winston's makeup effects. Discover what sets made-for-TV horror apart, filled with suspense and imagination. The hosts delve into eerie visuals and urban myths, while also recounting their whimsical visit to Uncle Willie's Desert Museum. From emotional depth to humorous anecdotes, this discussion captures the rich tapestry of folklore and the charm of classic horror.
The podcast explores the 1972 made-for-TV movie 'Gargoyles,' highlighting its status as a cult classic in horror cinema.
Discussion on gargoyle mythology reveals a unique interpretation, portraying them as a cohesive species rather than isolated beings.
Character dynamics between Dr. Mercer Boley and his daughter Diana introduce themes of skepticism, curiosity, and family tension in a supernatural context.
The moral ambiguity faced by the protagonists complicates traditional heroism, challenging viewers' perceptions of right and wrong in survival scenarios.
Deep dives
Sponsorship and Introduction
The episode opens with sponsorship messages from various companies, highlighting how services like Capital One can help manage subscriptions. It emphasizes the convenience of subscription management and exclusive offers on gaming technology from Alienware. Additionally, it introduces Factor meals, which promise quick and nutritious options, along with updates from USPS about their Ground Advantage Service. This segment sets a promotional tone before transitioning into the main discussion.
Overview of 'Gargoyles'
The hosts introduce the 1972 made-for-TV horror film 'Gargoyles,' starring a range of actors including Cornel Wilde and Jennifer Salt. The film has been frequently referenced in prior episodes and has received recommendations from listeners, indicating its cult status. It features a blend of early 70s television aesthetics and monster suits, emphasizing its unique place in the realm of made-for-TV horror. The film is characterized by its campy elements and a questionable narrative cohesion, intriguing fans of vintage horror.
Gargoyle Lore and Backstory
The episode delves into the lore presented at the beginning of the film, where the origins of gargoyles are explained through a voiceover. This introduces a history of gargoyles as demonic beings banished from heaven who seek to regain power on Earth every 600 years. The hosts discuss how the film's take on gargoyle mythology diverges from traditional interpretations, presenting them as a cohesive species rather than solitary creatures. This foundational mythos serves as a backdrop for the film's narrative, weaving supernatural elements into its plot.
Character Dynamics and Development
The relationship between the main characters, Dr. Mercer Boley and his daughter Diana, is highlighted, revealing a family dynamic complicated by the father's career as a demonologist. The conversation between them reveals layers of tension regarding their mother and the father's work, which serves to develop their characters early on. Diana's curiosity about the supernatural contrasts with her father's skepticism, offering a narrative tension as they venture into the field. Their interactions hint at deeper themes of trust and belief that permeate the film.
Gargoyle Encounters and Terror
The film's transition from mundane interactions to horror occurs through encounters with the gargoyles at Uncle Willie's Desert Museum, where a sudden attack ratchets up the tension. The characters' disbelief clashes with the reality of the supernatural threat, resulting in chaos. It catalyzes a series of poorly received encounters with the gargoyle realms, showcasing the film's blend of horror and camp. This horror is portrayed through poorly integrated monster effects and absurd situations, leaving viewers questioning the film's intentions.
Moral Ambiguity in the Narrative
As the story progresses, the moral ambiguity of the characters becomes apparent when the human protagonists resort to violence against the gargoyles. The film complicates notions of heroism as they engage in a fight for survival, often using questionable tactics. The conflict not only pits humans against supernatural beings but also blurs lines between right and wrong, leaving audiences to grapple with the implications of the characters' actions. This theme of survival versus morality undercuts conventional monster narratives, wherein humans are traditionally positioned as the heroes.
Conclusion and Reflection on Themes
The culmination of the film's events leads to the unraveling of the gargoyle saga, where conflict, jealousy, and survival intertwine. The gargoyle queen's choice to aid the humans adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, allowing for a dialogue on coexistence. However, the film concludes with a sense of discomfort regarding the fate of the gargoyles, prompting viewers to consider the implications of their societal roles. The episode ends by inviting listeners to reflect on the film's themes and its place in horror history, alongside personal anecdotes from viewers about their experiences with horror films.
In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1972 made-for-TV movie “Gargoyles,” starring Cornel Wilde, Jennifer Salt, Grayson Hall and Bernie Casey – with make-up effects by legendary Stan Winston.
